700-00402 Guidance: Affidavit of Paid and Outstanding Funeral Expenses and Debts for a Small Estate (Vermont)

When handling a small estate in Vermont, specifically during the probate process, a fiduciary might need the 700-00402 Affidavit of Paid and Outstanding Funeral Expenses and Debts for a Small Estate form. This form is pertinent when the estate is small enough to qualify for simplified administration processes and the fiduciary is tasked with detailing the funeral expenses and any debts that remain unpaid at this point in the proceedings. - File this form after the initial petition to open probate has been submitted and the fiduciary has been appointed. - Use after notifying creditors, as debts listed here should be "reasonably ascertainable." - Needed after confirming which funeral expenses have been paid to synchronize with the fiduciary’s account. Typically, the process begins with submitting a Petition to Open a Small Estate (form 700-00232) or similar documentation to establish the small estate status. This affidavit then helps the probate court understand the financial obligations involved, assisting the fiduciary in their duty to manage estate obligations transparently and efficiently. Proper completion of this document ensures that all related debts and expenses are accurately recorded, paving the way for the subsequent distribution of the estate's remaining assets.